a fragrant, buttery-garlicky pasta with succulent shrimp, a splash of white wine, touches of lemon, and a smooth, lightly glossy sauce. It’s fast enough for weeknights but special enough for guests.
Ingredients (4 Servings)
For the Pasta
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8 oz linguine, spaghetti, angel hair, or fettuccine
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1–2 tablespoons kosher salt (for pasta water)
For the Shrimp & Sauce
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1 lb large shrimp (21/25 or similar), peeled and deveined
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 tablespoons butter (divided)
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6–7 garlic cloves, minced (use more if you want it very garlicky)
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½ teaspoon kosher salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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¼–½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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½ cup dry white wine OR seafood/chicken broth
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½ cup low-sodium chicken broth (if using wine, use less broth)
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1–2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional but delicious)
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1 cup baby spinach or arugula (optional)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
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Extra butter or olive oil to finish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the pasta
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Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
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Add a small handful of salt—this seasons the pasta from the inside.
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Add your pasta and cook until al dente, usually 8–11 minutes depending on the type.
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Before draining, scoop out 1 cup of pasta water and set it aside.
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Drain pasta and toss with a teaspoon of olive oil so it doesn’t clump while you cook the shrimp.
2. Cook the shrimp
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Pat shrimp dry so they sear nicely.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
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Add half of the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 30–40 seconds.
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Add the shrimp in a single layer and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
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Cook shrimp for 1½–2 minutes per side, just until pink and curled.
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Transfer shrimp to a bowl or plate so they don’t overcook.
3. Build the garlic-butter sauce
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In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon butter.
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Add the rest of the garlic and cook until soft and fragrant—don’t let it brown.
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Pour in the white wine and simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
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Add the broth and bring to a gentle boil.
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Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and tomatoes if using.
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Let the mixture simmer for 2–4 minutes, reducing to a light, glossy sauce.
4. Combine pasta, shrimp, and sauce
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Add the drained pasta to the skillet.
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Toss well so the pasta absorbs the sauce—if needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
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Return the shrimp to the pan and gently toss everything together.
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Add spinach or arugula and let it wilt into the pasta.
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Remove from heat and add Parmesan and parsley.
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Taste and adjust seasoning—more lemon, more salt, or an extra pinch of pepper flakes depending on your preference.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp Pasta
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Use fresh garlic—pre-minced jars won’t give the same aroma.
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Don’t overcook the shrimp—pull them off heat early; they continue cooking when mixed into the pasta.
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Use pasta water wisely—a splash helps the sauce cling and creates a silky finish.
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Choose your pasta shape—long noodles catch the garlicky sauce beautifully.
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Add ¼ cup cream or 3 tablespoons mascarpone.
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Tomato-Basil Version: Add more tomatoes and fresh basil.
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Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Hybrid: Stir in ½ cup half-and-half with Parmesan.
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Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with garlic bread or warm crusty baguette.
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Pair with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a crisp green salad.
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Finish with extra Parmesan and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Storage
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Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
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Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.







